"I tell him I tried. I tried to keep memory alive; I tried to fight those who would forget. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. There is so much injustice & suffering crying out for our attention. We must take sides. We must interfere. -E.W.

A Change in Attitude

Have you noticed how much more positive I am over the past few months? I made a conscious decision to look for the good in the hand that was dealt. Hey, sometimes no good exists, but I can still look for ways to cope and manage it. The simple truth is, sometimes I must deal with pure evil and those who represent it. It will not let this define me.

I attribute my change directly to getting excited about a few projects.

First, I’m practically busting at the seams to attend and take part in the Duke University event, Finding Consciousness. I have so much to learn (and offer) by spending a few days there later this month. The professionals that will be attending are the real deal. I’m so impressed by their credentials.

Then there’s the “Office” project, where I take Ryan “to work”. I want this so bad for both Ryan and myself. It’ll do each of us a world of good, yes, but allows us to give back to society in a meaningful way. Maybe our home will begin to feel more relaxing again by the mere fact that there will be more definition between tasks?

Unfortunately, I’m running into a major problem in pulling this off. That’s not to say I’m anywhere close throwing in the towel.

The problem? Finding space. Not a lot of space either. I can make this work with as little as 500 to 750 square feet.

Maybe I’m being too optimistic in believing there is a developer or owner who will donate (or deeply discount) the space. I know there is space out there that is sitting idle. My challenge is locating the people who can make the decision. Perhaps a realtor might have this insight? I tried doing this on my own, but just keep spinning my wheels. What I need is a caring company, like Koons Automotive who donated a van, to open their hearts. To see the business sense and reap the benefits in community goodwill.

My goal was to be occupying this space before the blooms of spring were on the trees. It still is, but it’s getting tight. Very tight. So tight it squeaks.

Comments

Hi Ken, I’m so happy you’re feeling (and thus further creating) this positive energy!! I’m working on this myself, and it requires a lot of discipline. Just to know these projects are doing this for you is so heartening to me. Wonderful things happen when good people put their minds together to search for fresh solutions — which of course is what you’ll be doing with all the people at Duke.

With regard to getting a space — I know there is one out there. I think that having you and Ryan working in a space would only be positive for any building owner. For starters, it will attract many different people to the building, i.e. the numerous local contingent of Team Diviney. And, depending on how wide you cast your net, there could be many more than that visiting your office. This would all generate a positive, energizing environment. In other words, whomever is so kind to provide this space for you will benefit (I believe) by additional traffic and attention to their location. (And that could be putting it mildly!)

So far a great many people who have learned about Ryan and his struggles and determination have come forward to lend a hand. I believe it will happen this time, too. I feel like the tide has been turning for a while now — drawing more and more caring souls together for a common purpose — which is to help Ryan keep moving forward in his recovery. The wonderful people of Koons Ford showed us this in a very big way. I have no doubt they earned the respect (and business) of many of us.

Wishing you and Ryan a positive and productive day as the bright winter sun flows through the windows. Hey, I think your positive disposition is catching!!
Love, hugs, prayers and always hope
Paula

You have been sounding positive!
One idea about the office space..just an idea to throw out there to others who already have the spot. SHARE the space. Some professionals share office space. You might use it a few days and I might use it the others, or even you use in morning and I use in the afternoon, that way it is used to its max potential.
It might have a common entrance area, but we each have our own room/working space in the rented sq footage. Someone out there must have space that they are not in 5 days/week all day. Even if its just to get your idea off to a start until your business goes gangbusters and needs more sq footage. Hoping this idea takes off. Can’t wait to see you accept your honorary degree from Duke next year at graduation! Ha Ha

Ken,
I am so excited for you! I believe, like you do, that not only is there space out there, but that someone will step up to the plate and make this happen. I will be praying specifically for this, and within your desired timeframe. You and Ryan are a powerful team with unsurpassed, untapped potential.
I also look forward to hearing about Finding Consciousness.

Ken, Yes, I’ve noticed too and am very glad ! Will say a prayer smeone steps up with office space
That would be great for you and Ryan to get out and “go to work”. Only good can come from that!
We are excited too about what you will learn and give to workshop. Good luck
Love Gail

Well, dear Kenneth, I had noticed your attitude change to a more positive one, but I was just going to sit tight and hope and pray that it lasts. I have been awake since 2:30 this morning and have been re-reading some of your recent posts to try to bring about a positive attitude for myself assuming, of course, that attitudes are contagious. I really think I felt better after reading and viewing videos about all the good things that are happening for Ryan and his family. I am so thankful for these GOOD things!

As far as office space, have you put an add in the Patch or anywhere else at this point. I’m thinking you would have to be pretty specific regarding the kind of space you are looking for. Certainly not around the beltway or too far away. I am praying for something to turn up right there in Ashburn or very nearby (Praying people, start your engines!). We will see it when we believe it. It will happen!

I wonder if there was a way to get some type of sponsorship from one or numerous doctors offices or a few multi-practice offices. Maybe brainstorm ones that pertain to Ryan’s various needs or affiliated with his care. I bet there could be some exchange for advertising of sorts via this site or another means relating to your business. Larger Medical facilities pertaining to TBI may be of help in exchange for some public speaking on your part. I’m sure you could barter Ken:0)…I’ll keep thinking! Hit up some of the hospitals via their administration or go bigger to their systems INOVA or HCA, etc. Thinking cap is on:0)